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Behold the lush greenery of Ireland’s scenic landscapes while indulging in the fresh air that awakens the country’s warm hospitality, strong heritage and perfect blend of rural and urban atmospheres.
Historical Sightseeing
1. Visit “Jeanie Johnston,” a recreation of one of Ireland’s famous “famine ships,” and witness the historical path the Irish took in order to acquire better living.
2. Encounter outstanding views at the Cliffs of Moher, which soar nearly 700 feet above the lively Atlantic.
3. Visit Killarney to experience the bliss in kissing the Blarney Stone.
4. Travel the Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s most beautiful coastal routes
5. Visit the harbor of Cobh and reflect upon the site where the Titanic last dropped anchor before its fateful voyage.
Religious Heritage
1. Explore the historical background of Saints Patrick and Kevin during telling visits to the Rock of Cashel, the holy site of Glendalough and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
2. Journey to the stirring ruins of Clonmacnoise, site of great monastic settlements.
3. In Connemara, visit Kylemore Abbey, home to the oldest order of Benedictine nuns in Ireland and the site of beautiful gardens.
Regal Lodging
1. Nestle into the royal surroundings of the majestic grounds of Cabra Castle, set in the Cavan countryside.
2. Enjoy Ashford Castle, dating back to 1228. It’s one of Europe’s finest resorts and once the country home of the Guinness family.
3. Stay at the spectacular Castlemartyr Resort, once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh.
Local Cuisine
1. Pay a visit to Sean’s Pub, recorded as the oldest pub in Europe.
2. Meet a traditional Irish family during a memorable visit to Rathbaun Farm. Enjoy a guided tour and join the farmers for tea and scones and stories of their daily life.
3. Visit Kinsale, the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland.” This charming fishing village is famous for the freshest and highest quality seafood. The Good Food Circle, which is comprised of 10 Member Restaurants, hosts a series of special offers and events, like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival in October.
4. Take a guided tour of Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson’s Irish Whiskey.
City & Town Tours
1. Explore O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park and Grafton Street when wandering through Dublin.
2. Visit Galway, the ancient “City of Tribes”; Adare, “Ireland’s prettiest village”; and Limerick, which showcases King John's Castle and the Treaty Stone.
3. Travel to Waterford and its House of Waterford Crystal factory, housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world.
There is no better time to travel to Ireland than the year 2013 for The Gathering. This year-long celebration invites the 70 million people worldwide that claim Irish ancestry to travel back to the country and rejoice in their Irish heritage! Even those unlinked to the Irish culture are encouraged to join and relish in this great party. Expect epic events and cozy street parties, reunions and homecomings, festivals and fairs, and fun and games.
If you are interested in journeying to Ireland, contact your local travel agent or call leading U.S. tour operator Collette Vacations at 800.340.5158 and visit www.collettevacations.com.
September 1, 2023
